But you will not leave papa, will you?

Doctor (breathing heavily).--Oh, you wish to speak of the prince's
health?

Stella.--No, I know that papa is getting better. I did not expect that
it would be difficult--I am afraid of the severe opinion that you have
of people.

Doctor (with simulated ease).--Pray, do not torture my curiosity.

Stella.--Then I will close my eyes and tell you, although it is not
easy for any young girl. You know Mr. George Pretwic well, do you not?

Doctor (uneasily).--I know him.

Stella.--How do you like him? He is my fiance.

Doctor (rising).--Your fiance?

Stella.--Good gracious!--then you do not approve of my choice? (A
moment of silence.)

Doctor.--Only one moment. Your choice, princess, if it is of your
heart and will, must be good--only--it was unexpected news to me;
therefore, perhaps, I received it a little too seriously. But I could
not hear it with indifference owing to the affection I have for--your
family. And then, my opinion does not amount to anything in such a
matter. Princess, I congratulate you and wish you all happiness.

Stella.--Thank you. Now I shall be more easy.

Doctor.--You must return to your father. Your news has been so sudden
that it has shocked me a little. I must collect my wits--I must
familiarize myself with the thought. But in any event, I congratulate
you.

Stella.--Good night. (She stops in the door, looks at the Doctor and
goes in.)

SCENE VIII.

Jozwowicz (alone).--Too late!

END OF ACT I.

* * * * *

ACT II.

The stage represents the same drawing-room.

SCENE I.

Jozwowicz. Anton.

Doctor.--Anton, come here. We can talk quietly, for they are preparing
my room. What news from the city?

Anton.--Good news. In an hour or so a delegation of the voters will be
here. You must say something to them--you understand? Something about
education--public roads, heavy taxes. You know what to say better than
I do.

Doctor.--I know, I know; and how do they like my platform?

Anton.--You have made a great hit. I congratulate you. It is written
with scientific accuracy. The papers of the Conservative party have
gone mad with wrath.

Doctor.--Very good. What more?

Anton.--Three days ago your election was doubtful in the suburbs. I
learned about it, however--gathered the electors and made a speech.
"Citizens," I said, in the end, "I know only one remedy for all your
misery--it is called Joz